Dennis Mukolwe The People's Palace Museum in Zanzibar is a fascinating and well-preserved historical site, offering visitors a deep dive into the rich cultural and political history of the island. Located in the heart of Zanzibar Town, the museum is housed in a beautiful building that was once a palace for the Sultan's family. The architecture itself is a stunning example of Swahili and Arabic influences, featuring intricate carvings, large balconies, and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. The museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive look into Zanzibar's past, from the era of the sultans to its colonial history and the struggles for independence. The displays feature various artifacts, photographs, and historical documents that tell the stories of the island’s royal family, its involvement in the slave trade, and the vibrant Swahili culture that has shaped its identity. One of the highlights is the section dedicated to Zanzibar’s political history, including the 1964 Zanzibar Revolution, which dramatically changed the course of the island's future. The museum also does an excellent job of highlighting the everyday lives of the people who lived on Zanzibar, with exhibits that include traditional clothing, household items, and tools that were used in daily life. The museum is not overwhelmingly large, making it an ideal spot for a couple of hours of exploration. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, offering insightful tours for those interested in learning more. The museum’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its intriguing exhibits, provides an enriching experience for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to understand Zanzibar's unique role in East African history. Overall, the People's Palace Museum is a must-visit for anyone touring Zanzibar, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past and its cultural heritage.
Dianne Grendovich The palace building is closed for repair-eta 2027-but the sultans graveyard + detailed historical explanations is open-theyll give you a tour around + answer questions. They also have Portuguese canons + an old British car + the first presidents car- a Zephyr !
Andrew Fesiak I'm giving this place a 5 star rating because it really is something that you should visit while you are in Zanzibar. The history here is really fascinating. The tour guides are also great. However, this place is falling apart due to old age and the weather. I don't know who to blame: the government or the museum director? Can't they apply to UNESCO to get a grant to fix the place up? Write some letter to different embassies to get some grants. One of the last princesses married a German and became a German citizen. Maybe the Germans could help? The last Sultan of Zanzibar moved to Britain. Maybe the Brits could help. Start doing something before you completely lose your history! As an example, the House of Wonders next door just collapsed!
Yomi Ade This historic monument lacks the preservation and conservation such a place should have. Fabrics are exposed to the elements, the furniture is run down and a shadow of what a Sultan's Palace really looked like. No effort or funds are invested in this property and in a few years, nothing will be left. Very sad. Contains loads of pictures and furniture and some old cars which tell their own stories. One of the things Stone Town is known for and the story of the Princess who married a German is interesting
Ike Bennion This is a very interesting stop for those who are history buffs, others may be a little bored by it. This is the original palace of the sultans completed in 1832 and was home to all of them, their concubines and family until the 12th sultan fled to the UK in the Zanzibar Revolution. It has period pieces and some copies on display of trade pacts, armaments, cars, furniture (most of the display is furniture) from the sultans. A few of the stops along the way have beautiful views of the ocean. Worth a look.